Job Overview

• The District Heating Plant Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the district heating energy centres and associated distribution networks. The role involves monitoring plant performance, responding to alarms and faults, carrying out routine inspections and maintenance tasks, and ensuring uninterrupted delivery of heating and hot water services across MPC.

  The post holder will support energy efficiency initiatives, maintain compliance with health, safety and environmental requirements, and contribute to achieving operational performance targets.

Main Duties

• Operate and monitor district heating plant equipment including:
  • Boilers
  • Pumps and pressurisation equipment
  • Heat exchangers
  • Water treatment systems
• Monitor plant performance through Building Management Systems (BMS), SCADA systems and remote monitoring platforms.
• • Adjust operating parameters to optimise efficiency, reliability and energy performance.
  • Ensure heat generation and distribution systems meet customer demand requirements.

  Inspection and Maintenance

  • Conduct routine inspections of plant and equipment.
  • Perform first-line maintenance activities and basic fault-finding.
  • Identify equipment defects and report maintenance requirements.
  • Assist specialist contractors and engineers during planned and reactive maintenance activities.
  • Maintain records of inspections, maintenance activities and plant performance.

  Fault Response

  • Respond promptly to alarms, breakdowns and customer service interruptions.
  • Diagnose faults and implement corrective actions within authorised limits.
  • Escalate complex issues to engineering teams or management when necessary.
  • Participate in emergency response and recovery activities to minimise service disruption.

  Health, Safety and Compliance

  • Comply with all company health, safety and environmental procedures.
  • Complete risk assessments, permit-to-work documentation and safe systems of work.
  • Ensure plant operations comply with relevant legislation, regulations and industry standards.
  • Report incidents, hazards and near misses in accordance with company procedures.
  • Promote a positive safety culture throughout the workplace.

  Operational Performance

  • Monitor energy efficiency, fuel consumption and plant performance indicators.
  • Assist in identifying opportunities to improve system efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
  • Support commissioning and testing of new plant and equipment.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

  Customer Service

  • Support investigations into heating and hot water supply issues.
  • Provide technical information regarding planned outages and service disruptions.
  Maintain a professional and customer-focused approach at all times.

What we are looking for

• Essential

  • Experience operating industrial, utility, district heating, HVAC or energy generation plant.
  • Understanding of heating systems, pumps, boilers and associated mechanical equipment.
  • Experience using BMS, SCADA or similar monitoring systems.
  • Knowledge of health and safety regulations and safe working practices.
  • Ability to diagnose and resolve operational issues.
  • Good communication and record-keeping skills.
  • Full UK driving licence.

   

  Desirable

  • Experience within district heating or heat network operations.
  • Experience with CHP, heat pump or renewable energy systems.
  • Knowledge of water treatment processes.
  • IOSH Working Safely or equivalent qualification.
  • Mechanical or electrical engineering qualification.
  • Familiarity with Heat Network Regulations and industry standards.
  • Authorised Person or Competent Person certification.
  • BOAS certification.
  • IOSH or NEBOSH qualification.
  • Experience of working abroad.
  • Experience of an MOD environment.